SWF Supports Space Seminar at Vatican Observatory

Monday, April 2, 2018

SWF Executive Director Michael Simpson and his wife, the Reverend Carol Simpson were among the thirty invited delegates at a seminar on linking the capabilities of space applications to the achievement of the sustainable development goals. Gathering on March 27, at the Specola Vaticana (Vatican Observatory) in Albano Laziale outside Rome, the delegates spent a long day exploring ways in which space technology could contribute to making progress on the SDG's. Discussions covered a wide range of topics including climate change, disaster management, peace, and diplomacy with Dr. Simpson moderating a panel on humanitarian aid.

The following day the group's members were taken to Vatican City where they attended Pope Francis's General Audience at St. Peter's Basillica before being accorded a private conversation with the Pope about their work. The seminar was organized by the UN Office of Outer Space Affairs in cooperation with the Vatican Observatory and received support from both the European Space Agency and SWF. Discussions have already begun on the possibility of organizing future sessions.